Overview
Andy C (born Andrew Michael Clarke on April 7, 1976) is an English DJ and record producer. He co-founded RAM Records, a drum and bass label.
Early years
Andy C originally found success in 1993 with the track "Valley of the Shadows", which was created and released by Origin Unknown, consisting of Andy C and Ant Miles. It is sometimes referred to as "31 Seconds" or "Long Dark Tunnel" due to the samples it incorporates. In 2001, he collaborated with Shimon on the single "Body Rock," which reached #28 on the UK Singles Chart in January 2002. The single used a swinging rhythm and distinguishable synthesizer leads. Andy C continues to release music through RAM Records, which has signed artists such as Chase & Status, Loadstar, Sub Focus, and Wilkinson. He has performed at festivals including Creamfields, Global Gathering, the Sunbeat Festival, and the Electric Daisy Carnival.
2010–2014
In 2012, Andy C introduced "Andy C Alive", a live performance setup combining DJ mixing with synchronized visual effects. He has performed at venues and festivals in Europe and North America, including SXSW in Texas and Brixton Academy in London. On 3 November 2013, he released a promotional double A-side single, "Haunting / Workout." It entered the UK Singles Chart at number 188. His next single, "Heartbeat Loud" (with Fiora), was released in November 2014 and made it to number 10 on the UK Singles Chart.
2015–present
Andy C released the singles "New Era" and "What Bass" in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Throughout 2017, he performed at multiple festivals. In 2018, Andy C headlined a sold-out show at Wembley Arena, which was reported as the first headline event there by a drum and bass artist. In 2019, Andy C released the singles "Till Dawn", and "Back & Forth".
Awards and nominations
Andy C ranked #61 in DJ Magazine's 2010 Top 100 DJs annual poll announced 27 October 2010. Andy C won the Best DJ award, presented by Drum & Bass Arena, every year from 2009 to 2018. On 29 November 2013, Andy C won Ambassador of Bass Music in the 2013 Bass Music Awards, and his label Ram Records was nominated for Best Label. In 2019, Andy C won the "DJ Mag Top 100 DJs - Highest Drum and Bass Award", climbing 11 positions on the previous year to No. 79.
Musical style and influence
Andy C is known for rapid mixing and often uses three analogue turntables during performances. His mixing style, referred to as "The Double Drop", involves aligning two songs simultaneously.
Personal life
According to several media interviews, Andy C is married to Natanya and has two daughters. He has described himself as a lifelong fan of the football club West Ham United.